A group of UN experts recently criticized the US’s partial maritime blockade on Venezuela, asserting that it breaches essential international law principles. The blockade, announced by the US in December, targets sanctioned oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela and is supported by a significant military presence in the Caribbean. The experts emphasized that there is no legal justification for enforcing unilateral sanctions through military means, labeling the blockade as a serious violation of the UN Charter.
The experts highlighted that such actions constitute an illegal use of force, potentially granting Venezuela the right to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter. They warned that this unlawful force threatens the human right to life and other rights within Venezuela and the surrounding region. Additionally, they expressed concerns regarding the legality and proportionality of the sanctions, which they believe undermine the human rights of the Venezuelan people and hinder progress toward Sustainable Development Goals.
Referring to recent US attacks on civilian vessels, which have resulted in numerous fatalities, the experts called for accountability and investigations into these incidents. They urged the US Congress to intervene, prevent further assaults, and lift the blockade, emphasizing the necessity for collective international action to uphold international law.
